New petrol particulate filter brings the JCW into line with Euro regulations on the WLTP test cycle, allowing it to be sold in the region.

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Mini has detailed the mildly-updated JCW Hatch for Europe, complete with a new particulate filter helping it meet Euro 6d-Temp emissions regulations on the tough WLTP test cycle.

Power still comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 170kW/320Nm, hooked up to a six-speed manual transmission as standard. An eight-speed automatic is also be available.

The engine now features a particulate filter, crucial in sneaking it under the Euro 6d emissions bar in WLTP testing. There's also an 'Eco Mode', should drivers feel the need to use it.

Although it's been on a six-month sales hiatus in Europe, the JCW has remained on the menu for Australia.

Fitted with a manual, the car will hit 100km/h from standstill in just 6.3 seconds (6.6 for the drop top), while claimed fuel economy is 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.

European JCW models ride on 17-inch alloy wheels, and feature the same pumped-up bodykit as before. Like the model already on sale in Australia, the Euro-market 2019 model-year JCW gains Union Jack tail-light graphics, and can be customised with the latest slew of 'Mini Yours' options.

Otherwise, it's business as usual inside, which means a set of hip-hugging John Cooper Works bucket seats will join the cutesy, circle-inspired cabin for which the Mini is known.

Australia

Because we don't use the WLTP test cycle, Mini doesn't have any obligation to bring the cleaner new engine to Australia. Whether it will continue to make the engine in its pre-update guise, however, hasn't been announced.

In a statement, the company said it doesn’t have "any confirmation at this point regarding timing, specification levels", but anticipates it would "have a strong following in Australia, were it to be confirmed".

CarAdvice has reached out for more details on whether the old engine will still be available from the factory, and will update this story when we hear more.